Business loans for office space

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Your business’s success is likely tied to multiple factors playing out in your favor. One of them being where you are conducting business. Whether you’re launching a new venture, expanding your team, or transitioning out of a coworking setup, securing the right office space can mark a major milestone in your business journey. However, leasing or purchasing a commercial space comes with significant upfront costs such as deposits and renovations to furniture, utilities, and ongoing rent or mortgage payments.

A business loan for office space can help you manage these costs without compromising day-to-day operations. By spreading the expense over time, you can lock in the location and setup you need while preserving cash flow for other priorities.

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Can a business loan be used to buy or rent office space?

Yes. A business loan can be used to either buy or rent office space, depending on your goals and financial position.

If you’re looking to purchase a property, you might use a commercial real estate loan to finance the acquisition. These loans typically have longer terms and are secured against the property itself. If you’re renting, a loan can be used to cover upfront expenses like security deposits, leasehold improvements, initial rent payments, and setup costs. This is particularly helpful if you’re moving into a larger space or need to refurbish a new location to meet your operational needs.

In both cases, the loan can help businesses manage the transition into a new space without interrupting operations or depleting working capital.

How to use a business loan for office space

A business loan can support various aspects of your office move or expansion, not just the property costs themselves. It’s important to have a clear breakdown of how the funds will be used; this not only helps with planning but also strengthens your loan application.

Here are some common uses:

Down payment or security deposit – Many commercial property purchases require significant down payments. Likewise, leases often come with security deposits or upfront rent.
Leasehold improvements – If you’re leasing space, you may need to renovate or customize it to suit your business—adding partitions, updating flooring, or installing new systems.
Furniture and equipment – Desks, chairs, tech infrastructure, and breakroom essentials all add up quickly.
Utilities and compliance – Hooking up power, internet, or HVAC systems and ensuring compliance with local codes or accessibility requirements.
Professional fees – These can include costs for legal review, broker commissions, or architecture and design services.

A business loan can also help cover moving expenses and temporary overlap between spaces if you’re transitioning from one location to another.

What types of office space financing are available?

There are several financing options available for businesses seeking to buy or lease office space. Each has its own structure and suitability depending on whether you’re planning a purchase, long-term lease, or short-term upgrade.

Commercial real estate loans

These are long-term loans used to purchase office buildings or commercial property. They often require a substantial down payment (typically 10–30%) and are secured by the property itself. Terms can range from 5 to 25 years.

SBA 504 and SBA 7(a) loans

Backed by the Small Business Administration, these loans offer competitive rates and longer repayment terms. The 504 loan is particularly suited for real estate purchases, while the 7(a) can be used for leasing costs and improvements.

Business term loans

A term loan provides a lump sum of capital that can be used for upfront leasing expenses, renovations, or equipment. Repayment terms typically range from 1 to 5 years, making it ideal for shorter-term needs or when purchasing isn’t part of the plan.

Business lines of credit

For more flexible needs, such as phased office upgrades or ongoing costs, a business line of credit allows you to draw funds as needed, paying interest only on the amount used.

Equipment financing

While not used for the property itself, this type of financing can help fund furniture, IT systems, and office equipment without tying up your primary loan.

Your choice of loan will depend on your business size, financial history, and whether you’re seeking ownership, flexibility, or minimal upfront costs.

How to apply for office space finance

Applying for a business loan for office space typically involves a few weeks of preparation and review. Most lenders will want to see that your business is financially stable and that the loan is tied to a strategic growth goal.

Here’s how to approach it:

Step 1: Look at your space needs and costs

Outline what you’re looking for; this includes purchase or lease, square footage, location, and any improvements or buildouts required. Get cost estimates where possible, including quotes from vendors, landlords, or contractors.

Step 2: Evaluate your business financials

Lenders will want to assess your business’s ability to repay. Gather financial statements, cash flow projections, tax returns, and any existing loan information. A good credit history and consistent revenue can improve your terms.

Step 3: Choose the right type of loan

Consider how long you’ll need the space and whether ownership or leasing makes more sense for your growth strategy. Compare interest rates, repayment terms, and funding speed across lenders or platforms.

Step 4: Prepare your documentation

In addition to financial records, be ready to provide a business plan, property details, lease agreements (if applicable), and cost breakdowns. The more clarity you provide, the faster your application is likely to move.

Step 5: Apply and review your offer

Submit your application through your preferred lender or a platform like Swoop, which lets you compare multiple options in one place. Once approved, carefully review the repayment schedule, fees, and any collateral requirements.

Get started with Swoop

Securing office space is a big step for any business, and the right financing can make it much more manageable. Whether you’re buying a building, leasing a new space, or just outfitting your current office to support growth, Swoop helps you find the funding solution that fits. With access to a wide network of lenders and tailored finance options, Swoop makes it easy to compare terms and apply with confidence.

Register with Swoop today to explore available business loans for office space and move forward with the right financial foundation.